Judiciary tipped on how to handle Genocide cases

Members of the Judiciary have been advised to deal with genocide related cases with particular attention to avoid handing verdicts which could have an adverse effect on survivors given the sensitivity of such cases. The advice was offered yesterday by the Prosecutor General Richard Muhumuza at Murambi Genocide Memorial Site in Nyamagabe District during an event to mark the 21st anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. “As judges and prosecutors, when there is hesitation on decisions that we are about to make, we should explore the case further to avoid hurting the victim,” he said. Officials from the Ministry of Justice, Supreme Court, High Court, National Public Prosecution Authority, Rwanda Law Reform Commission (RLRC), as well as the Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD) were in attendance. Muhumuza said building the Rwandan society and country should base on the unity and reconciliation of Rwandans, which calls for delivery of justice, respect of human rights and upholding people’s dignity. Charles Kaliwabo, the president of the High Court, said members of the Judiciary should always endeavour to employ wise judgement while discharging their duties. Some staff from the judiciary community reading some content about the genocide about the Tutsi, at Murambi Genocide Memorial Site yesterday . “When dealing with Genocide cases, yes, we have to look for evidence, but we must do so while recognising the complex nature of the issue at hand,” he said. The Permanent Secretary and Solicitor General at the Justice ministry, Isabelle Kalihangabo, said the Judicial community had the responsibility to ensure that genocide never happens again. “That’s why the Rwanda Law Reform Commission should work on the laws that are not in line with the current reality so they can eventually be amended; the Prosecution should also put in more efforts in tracking down fugitives who are still at large around the world while courts should speed up Genocide cases,” she said. Rwanda has issued hundreds of warrants for Genocide suspects who are yet to be brought to book – with many of them still freely roaming the streets of Western capitals.

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Judiciary tipped on how to handle Genocide cases